Student Spotlight: Gina Ferguson — “It’s Scary to Ask for Help, But This Made It Easier”
Posted by katie.weibel
When Gina Ferguson returned to Portland Community College in Fall 2023, she knew she was ready to take the next step toward her education and career. What she didn’t know was how much easier—and more meaningful—that journey would become with the support of PCC’s Career Pathways and STEP programs, especially the coaching relationship she built with Tu, her STEP Career Coach.
Back in 2014–2015, Gina had taken some prerequisite courses, but life pulled her in another direction. Nearly a decade later, while volunteering at PCC’s food pantry, she spotted a flyer for STEP. “I knew it was going to be a helpful thing,” she said. That small moment turned into a big turning point.
Gina describes working with Tu as the heart of her experience. “She always asked how I was doing. It wasn’t just a transaction,” she said. “She never forgot about me—I wasn’t just a number.” What stood out most was how proactive and personal the support felt. Tu offered help before Gina even knew to ask for it. “She made sure I didn’t miss out on anything. She was really rooting for me to succeed.”
In addition to regular check-ins and encouragement, Tu connected Gina to a range of resources through STEP and Career Pathways. These included textbooks, technology like AirPods to help with online classes, and a $100 gas card, which was especially critical since Gina travels between three campuses. She also received professional clothes for a job interview, a parking pass, and gap funding that allowed her to take summer classes she’ll transfer to Portland State University.
“Even just one term in STEP saved me so much—hundreds of dollars that I didn’t have,” she said. “I wouldn’t have been able to take classes this summer without the help.”
But what Gina emphasizes most is the impact of having a coach in her corner. Tu’s guidance made all the difference in navigating college systems, deadlines, and resources. “It shouldn’t be that hard,” Gina reflected. “Tu made it easy. She was there—checking in, offering help, answering questions. She made me feel like I mattered.”
As a first-generation college student, Gina knows how scary it can be to ask for help. “Ten years ago, I needed the help even more, but I didn’t know how to ask. It was really heavy for me back then,” she said. “I just wish I’d reached out sooner.”
Now on track to transfer to PSU, Gina encourages other students not to wait. “Don’t be scared. Sign up as soon as you can. Even one term of support made a huge difference. There’s no shame in getting help—this program reminded me I didn’t have to do it alone.”
